"I have recommended Pjanic before to Manchester City - they know all about him. On one occasion, the manager, Roberto Mancini, asked me whether Pjanic was Bosnian. I said: 'Of course he's Bosnian!' I wouldn't be surprised if Pjanic came to City, and I sincerely hope he does."

Dzeko's own future is the subject of significant conjecture, and he talked up the possibility of a move back to the Bundesliga earlier this year, but it would appear his decision may be influenced by the possibility Pjanic could arrive.

He added: "If 'Mire' came to City then I would certainly not want to leave the Etihad."